Brazil cotton sector to discuss prices and productivity at upcoming congress

The 15th Brazilian Cotton Congress will take place from September 22 to 24 in Belo Horizonte, bringing together producers, researchers, and buyers to address challenges in the sector. While Brazil remains a leading global producer and exporter, the industry faces significant pressure regarding prices, production costs, and profit margins.

According to estimates from the Companhia Nacional de Abastecimento (Conab), Brazilian lint production is expected to reach approximately 4.1 million tons in the 2025/2026 harvest. This volume maintains Brazil's position as a major global player. In the commercial year ending July 2026, the country set a record by exporting 3.37 million tons of cotton, with China leading as the primary buyer, followed by Turkey, Pakistan, Vietnam, and India.

Despite high production volumes, profitability remains a concern due to high costs for fertilizers, pesticides, machinery, fuel, and storage, combined with slow global fiber consumption growth. Additionally, international buyers are increasingly demanding higher standards of quality, traceability, and environmental and social responsibility.